Waltraud

Waltraud by Tammy Borden is a poignant historical fiction novel based on the real-life experiences of the author’s mother, a German girl coming of age during the rise and fall of Nazi Germany. Though classified as fiction, the story closely mirrors reality, drawing fromhours of personal interviews between Tammy and her mother. The book follows Waltraud from her childhood through marriage and motherhood, offering readers a sweeping view of wartime Germany through the eyes of someone caught in the crossfire—not as a soldier or political actor, but as a civilian trying to survive in a world unraveling.

What sets this novel apart is its perspective: while many World War II novels focus onresistance or Allied heroism, Waltraud explores the life of an ordinary German citizen—one who did not support the war but suffered deeply because of it. Tammy Borden masterfully weaves personal storytelling with historical accuracy, allowing the raw emotion and hardship of her mother’s experiences to shine through. With its emotional depth and narrative strength, this book offers both an educational and heart-wrenching reading experience.

I couldn’t put it down; this is one of those stories that stays with you long after the lastpage.